Hotel Middelburg

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Cosy terraces on the market square

About Middelburg

Historic Middelburg

The capital of the province of Zeeland has a grand
past, which is still visible. The development of Middelburg dates
back to the 9th century, to the time, the Vikings moved into
Europa. A defensive ring wall fortress was built in order to
defend the island of Walcheren against the intruders. After the
threat of the conquerors had passed the fortress, due to its good
location on the water, developed into a trade centre. Since this
fortress was the middle fortress of Walcheren, the city was given
the name Middelburg (Middel for 'middle' and 'burg' being the Dutch
translation for fortress).

During the time of the Dutch East India Company, called VOC in
Dutch, Middelburg was, after Amsterdam, the second most important
city within the Netherlands. Over 300 new shops were built on the
ship yards in 200 years time. These ships left for Asia to trade in
among other things spice, textiles and procelain. The city centre
of Middelburg still has buildings that remind of this Golden
Age.

After a bombing in 1940, during which a devestating
fire destroyed a large part of the city, Middelburg was built up
again in traditional style. Middelburg has historic monuments
besides modern architecture. It is a city with an individual
character. It has intimate squares, lovely streets, cosy pubs and
special boutiques besides the large chain stores, as well as
galleries and art shops. Source: VVV Zeeland